Presenting the Conflict: The Tragedy of Knowing Without Obeying

Solomon studied deeply, saw clearly, spoke wisely, but walked proudly
He multiplied wives, horses, and silver, violating Torah commands (Deut. 17:16–17)
His disobedience was reasoned and justified, not accidental
He confesses that he twisted God’s Word and ignored His will
The chapter is not a rejection of wisdom, but a warning against trusting wisdom without submission to God

I Sought the Torah But It Became a Burden (vv. 12–13)

"I the Preacher was king" signals reflection and regret
Solomon gave his heart to pursue wisdom, understood as Torah wisdom
As king, Solomon was charged with covenantal responsibility under the Law
Proverbs is a royal user’s guide to Torah, addressed to his son and successor
Wisdom and Torah were one in Solomon’s understanding
"Under heaven" implies divine perspective, broader than mere human observation
"Sore travail" is not the pursuit of wisdom, but the weight of responding to divine revelation (cf. Deut. 30:15)
The problem is not Torah, but a heart that resists it

Solomon saw the works done under the sun and called them vanity and vexation of spirit